Captain Bucko Fish And Dive

Operating from Paihia (and sometimes departing from Russell or Waitangi), offers fishing charters across the waters of the Bay of Islands. Whether you’re new to fishing or a seasoned angler, Captain Bucko aims to deliver an enjoyable, authentic Kiwi fishing experience – complete with local knowledge, a friendly skipper, and the gear you need to head out on the water.

Charter Packages & What to Expect

Captain Bucko runs a range of trip options with varying durations and goals, depending on your schedule and fishing ambition.

• Short Charter (≈ 3.5-4 hours) – A quick outing for a morning or afternoon, suitable for 4-6 anglers. Good for beginners or anyone wanting a brief taste of fishing. Includes fishing gear, live bait and the services of the skipper.
• Mid-Length Charter (≈ 5-6 hours) – A more substantial outing targeting species such as snapper or kingfish, with all tackle, bait, and fishing license included.
• Full-Day Charter / Big-Game Trip (≈ 10 hours) – For more serious anglers or those chasing larger or deeper-water species (reef or game fish). The charter includes tackle, live bait, and equipment for heavier fishing styles.

Boat, Gear & Onboard Setup

The charters run from a 7-metre vessel with a 100 hp outboard motor – small enough to be nimble near reefs and rocks, yet seaworthy for offshore work. All fishing gear is provided, including rods, reels (including electric reels when needed), bait, tackle, and licences. There’s an onboard toilet for comfort, and the skipper handles fish cleaning and filleting once you return.

Ideal For

• Beginners, couples or families wanting a half-day or easy fishing outing without needing their own gear.
• Anglers chasing mid-size reef species or local favourites like snapper, kingfish, etc.
• Serious or experienced fishers wanting a full-day charter targeting big-game or deeper-water species.
• Small groups (generally up to 4-6 people) wanting a personalised, flexible charter – good if you prefer a quieter, friendlier fishing experience over large commercial groups.
• Anyone who values local expertise – Captain Bucko’s knowledge of the Bay’s waters and fish behaviour is a key part of the experience.

Good to Know Before You Go

• All licences, tackle, bait and sea-gear are supplied – you just need to bring lunch, snacks, water, sunscreen, hat, and perhaps a camera.
• Weather and sea conditions can affect availability – if conditions look rough, the trip may be rescheduled.
• The experience is flexible – you can book standard charters or ask for a custom trip depending on what you want (type of fishing, duration, departure point).
• On return, fish will be cleaned and filleted for you – so you leave ready to grill or take home.